Nam Joo Hyuk's uncomfortable experience with Filipino fans and what to learn from it

Several Filipino fans drew the ire of local and international netizens for their inappropriate behavior toward South Korean superstars Nam Joo Hyuk and Sandara Park.

It took place at the Penshoppe FanCon held on Sunday, July 29, in SM Mall of Asia Arena, Pasay City.

IMAGE Nikko Tuazon

WHAT REALLY HAPPENED?

The whole program lasted for over three hours—complete with opening performances, interesting question-and-answer segment, fun-filled games, and the meet-and-greet session that lasted for about 15 minutes.

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The problem started during the last few minutes of the program when lucky winners got to have a group photo with the YG Entertainment artists.

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The first few batches of fans were orderly.

However, some fans couldn't contain themselves and pushed their way just to touch or hug Joo Hyuk and Dara.

A few of them even ran upon stepping on stage just to get a good photo spot with the Korean stars.

While the excitement of fans was understandable, Joo Hyuk looked visibly uncomfortable with fans grabbing him one after another.

The 24-year-old actor kept his cool, but was obviously uneasy.

He seemed hurt by the fans' action and was even spotted rubbing his arm in this video:

The hosts, MYX VJ Sunshine "Sunny" Kim and host-vlogger Justin Quirino, the organizers, and the security team asked the fans to keep calm and reminded them several times not to touch the Korean stars.

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Bouncers surrounded the stage to control the crowd.

Unfortunately, the security team also had trouble ushering the rowdy fans out of the stage after the photo op.

VJ Sunny and Justin approached Joo Hyuk and Dara after the commotion to make sure they were okay.

Joo Hyuk gave Justin the thumbs up.

It would seem however that some netizens added fuel to fire by posting tight shots of the actor's right arm, claiming that the scratches were caused by the Filipino fans.

But based on the photos taken by this writer when Joo Hyuk emerged on stage, the marks were already there even before the photo op.

IMAGE Nikko Tuazon

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And based on the videos and photos that were taken during the after-party held at Yes! Please in Bonifacio Global City, both Dara and Joo Hyuk looked fine, and even enjoyed playing foosball with some of the guests.